First Use

Once OpenCPN is installed and you start the program for the first time this message greets you. Please remember what you agree to when clicking OK.

This is not a text on general navigation. We assume that you are familiar with nautical navigation. Reading this text and using OpenCPN will not in itself make you a “navigator”.



Next OpenCPN prompts you to install charts.



And sends you to “Options” to do so. Click on the Charts tab, to install charts. Read all about installing charts in Manual Chart Installation
The easiest way to install charts is using Chartdownloader explained in detail later. If you're not quite ready to install yet just click “OK” in the Options dialog.



The worldwide GSSH Background Map will greet you.
From here explore the different features in OpenCPN by clicking around, or read on…

FIXME Screenshot

IMPORTANT NEXT STEPS


Getting started using OpenCPN consists of 3 basic steps:

  1. Chart Installation of Charts to be read by OpenCPN (OpenCPN does not include charts)
  2. Charts Basic Features - Main Source for using charts
  3. GPS Setup to communicate with your computer and OpenCPN (Optional, but very useful)

Completing these 3 steps will get you started and allow you to check out the program.

If you still have questions there is a large supportive OpenCPN community in this Cruisers Forum.